Tuesday, September 30, 2014

New Obsession: dress Raleigh Resale Boutique



After we made the move to Raleigh, I have to admit I was kind of nervous about shopping. I know that sounds silly and I don't mean to sound snobbish, but there were so many cute boutiques in LA that I frequented. I knew I'd be able to find items that were unique, different and pieces that not everyone would have.

Well, I've been pleasantly surprised by several stores here in Raleigh. One of them being dress, an upscale resale boutique. And ladies, let me just tell you... the owner, Pam Mullaney, has some of the best taste I've ever seen. dress is a fabulous concept - born from both Pam's love for fashion, and a desire to give women the option of dressing not only well, but at an affordable price point. Something I think we can all appreciate, am I right? In other words, it's the perfect mix of new and like-new. You can even buy straight from her social media pages. Yes, really! Read on to find out how...

New merchandise

Initially starting out on eBay, Pam's business has now evolved to a gorgeous space on Wade Avenue in Ridgewood Shopping Center (I mean check out those lights!) The front section of the store consists of new merchandise. Items that are on trend, unique and at super budget friendly prices.

Articles of Society is a new brand that dress Raleigh is a big fan of

The rest of the store is pre-owned designer clothing. And let me just tell you... Pam knows what she's doing. She doesn't just buy anything that comes through her door. She's crafted an amazing inventory, which to be honest, doesn't stay on the racks too long before it gets snatched up. Her everyday brands include J.Crew, DVF, Zara, Calypso St. Barts, Tory Burch, Rag & Bone, Tibi, Missoni, Vince... the list goes on! (follow them on instagram and Facebook for up-to-the-minute new arrivals!)

Some of dress Raleigh's most popular brands include Diane von Furstenberg and Tory Burch
Just one of the many Designer Consignment sections of dress Raleigh.

Her newest venture of the store has been dress Luxe. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Oscar de la Renta, Chloe, Christian Dior, Matthew Williamson, Christian Louboutin... basically name a dreamable designer, and

Monday, September 29, 2014

Outfit Post: Leopard & Camo & Sparkle, Oh My!








The Impeccable Pig "Gatsby Top" (still available online!)
Zara Camo Print Trousers (old - similar option on sale at Macy's and love these from The Loft)
Target Leopard Print Loafers (old - budget friendly similar option or splurge on these from J.Crew
Sole Society "Smythe" Sunglasses in c/o || Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Watch || J. Crew Pave Link Chain Bracelet || Sally Hansen "Cinnasnap" and OPI "Goldeneye" nail polish || Maybelline Vivids Lipstick in "Electric Orange"

P.S. It's seriously a total coincidence that I'm carrying some Starbie's in today's outfit post, which actually falls on National Coffee Day. I guess I just have good timing like that.

Last week you guys went crazy for this outfit on instagram, which is proof that mixed prints is still totally "A Do." And while I don't think I'll ever get tired of a mixed combo, it's nice to know that camo and leopard can still get some action together (it's one of my favorites) I know you guys love my loafers, but I'm telling you, these flats are a dead ringer and such a good price! Don't wait on them - I wear mine year round and with everything. 

I've been awake since 2AM this morning, Just couldn't sleep. I think I was still wired from my amazing weekend. I went to the NC State - Florida State game here in Raleigh. We tailgated, drank beer and couldn't have asked for more perfect weather. It was such a close game and NCSU put up a good fight, but thank gosh we pulled it out in the end. I also wore one of my favorite #BADxGameDay outfits so far. (Here's a sneak peek) Can't wait to share the full look with you!

Hope you guys have a lovely Monday! I am doubling up on the coffee today fo' sho! xoxo

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Game Day Outfit: FSU Baseball Tee & Jeans










Judith March Florida State Baseball Tee (gifted from Twelve Saturdays)
OCJ Apparel Florida State Seminoles Branded Skinny Jean in Garnet c/o
Sole Society "Sheeba" D'orsay Flat c/o (sold out but similar here)
JV Hantres "Noles" and "Fear the Spear" bracelets c/o (use JV Hantres promo code BADxFSU for 10% off $20 order or more)
  Daisy Gem Gold Sequin Clutch in Gold c/o || Caravelle New York Chronograph Watch in Gold (gifted) || oNecklace Personalized Block Letter Necklace c/o
Sally Hansen "Coin Flip" nail polish || Revlon Lip Butter in Lollipop

It's my favorite time of the year - Football Season! And you know that means I'm coming back with another edition of my BADxGameDay series. After last year's national championship win, this season has started out a little rocky for my Seminoles. But thanks to some amazing partners this year, my outfits will definitely not be on the rocky side. Not even close

For the Clemson game, I knew it was going to be stressful so I wanted to be as comfortable as possible. A lightweight tee, comfy flats and jeans were the perfect game day look for this serious nail biter of a game.

Enter OCJ Apparel [again!] They've got a ton of branded school's to choose from (like LSU, Alabama, South Carolina... yes even UF. But if they don't have your school's embroidered option, they have just about every color under the sun so you can still rock your team's colors. (note they run a bit long so if you're shorter, you will need to get them hemmed.) And you can never go wrong with anything from Twelve Saturdays. Liz is a total rockstar when it comes to finding awesome Game Day apparel. She restocks weekly (practically daily it seems!) so make sure you're following her to see all her new arrivals. Loving this Nole Tank for all you Seminole fans out there!

More amazing Game Day brands are coming your way in the next few weeks. So stay tuned and be on the lookout for your next tailgating outfit. Until then.. shop OCJ jeans below.


Monday, September 22, 2014

Outfit Post: Back in Black For Fall

Target Polka Dot Blouse

Ombre Hair Color with Black Jeans & Moto Ankle Boots

Black Polka Dot Blouse with Black Jeans

Sam & Libby Paxton Black Ankle Boots

Half United Jasmine Necklace with Polka Dot Blouse

All black outfit for fall

Target Merona "Favorite Shirt" in Polka Dot
Express "Stella" Jegging in Pitch Black
Sam & Libby for Target Paxton Buckle Bootie (last year - similar from Sam Edelman)
3.1 Phillip Lim for Target Mini Pashli Crossbody (super similar at Target now or splurge option
Half United "The Jasmine" necklace c/o Reeds Jewelers || Michael Kors "Bradshaw" watch in Rose Gold 
Maybelline Vivids Lipstick in Shocking Coral

Happy First Day of Fall! I can't believe it's already almost October, but I for one am SO excited about Fall. I can't wait to wear oversize sweaters, boots, drink tons of pumpkin coffee and eat soups until my heart is content. 

I already got the ball rolling on fall dressing with this all black ensemble. You know I'm a color lover at heart, but sometimes a girl just needs a good black outfit [that doesn't involve a funeral dress.] I scooped up this polka dot blouse on major sale at Target while shopping for the Altuzarra for Target collection last week. I can't wait to wear it with skirts and tights or underneath sweaters over the next few months.

What's your favorite part of fall? Have a great Monday loves!

{shop my basic black outfit below!}


Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Altuzarra For Target Picks



I really do love when Target releases their designer collaborations. Part of the fun is getting up early and actually visiting the store to see the clothes in person. And not every collaboration is the best, but I really liked the Altuzarra for Target collection. The main color palate was wine and black with luxurious gold accents and embroidery. It's beyond perfect for the upcoming fall and winter seasons. 

I bought the crane sweater and the peasant dress. I absolutely loved the wine colored wrap dress and the crane dress but they were just cut a little too low in the front for me. I also really wanted to check out the velvet tuxedo blazer and tuxedo pant but my target didn't have those. Also how cute is the PJ set?

Did you scoop anything up yet? Do tell! Happy Tuesday loves! xo 

Monday, September 15, 2014

Outfit Post: Tweed Circle Skirt









Zara White Blouse (old but super similar option here)
French Connection Tweed Circle Skirt (last year but almost identical option from this season)
Zara Metallic Double Ankle Strap Pump (old - but identical option at WHBM - like super scary identical)
Sole Society "Natassia" Satchel (sold out but love this one on sale) & "Smythe" Sunglasses in Tortoise c/o
Fitbit Flex Bracelet in Magenta
oNecklace Twitter necklace c/o
Caravelle New York Gold Watch (gifted)

Happy Monday lovelies!! Was your weekend good? Mine was pretty low key but still amazing. I'm a pusher.. you know like Ms. Norbury was [accused of being] in Mean Girls? Let me explain.. I finally got Bill as addicted to Scandal as I am. Like, we binge watched the entire third season starting Friday night and finished Saturday at 11 PM. Sick, right? But it's just so. damn. GOOD. Someone needs to come up with a "What Would Olivia Pope Do" graphic tee. Like STAT.

Anywho... let's talk fashion. I know this outfit is composed of mostly older items, but I've found some almost identical versions for you to shop (like this skirt or this top) I love tweed skirts because you can sport them starting towards the end of summer, and all the way through the beginning of spring. They're good for work (like this outfit) or play and can be worn with pumps or tights and boots (hello winter!) Plus I happen to think the circle skirt shape looks good on lots of different body types! What do you think...?

Shop similar white blouse / tweed skirt combos below:


Thursday, September 11, 2014

Outfit Post: What To Wear To An Interview







Vintage dress
BCBGeneration Floral Print Pumps (so old but super similar option at Nordstrom)
Sole Society "Sia" Satchel
Amrita Singh "Pop" Necklace in Pink
Nordstrom BP Mirrored Aviators (also love these - such a good price!)
Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Watch in Rose Gold
Revlon Lip Butter in "Lollipop"

Let's discuss what to wear to an interview... This used to always be a dreaded outfit for me. It's stressful enough trying to land a job on your credentials, but looking the part is important too! For me, I want to look professional and put together. But at the same time I want my personality to show through. I recently went in for a job interview and this is exactly what I wore (well minus the sunnies of course!) Here's 5 reasons why it works:

1. My dress is length appropriate (which is apparently a struggle for some ladies) It hits above the knee and below the thigh which to me is the "sweet spot length" because it's not too short and not too long. It's juuuuust right.

2. My dress FITS. I cannot say enough how important this is when interviewing. Remember you're trying to make a great first impression here. If your outfit is too tight or too baggy it might send the wrong message (either I like to party it up or I don't care enough about this job to find something that fits) Even if you have to take it to a tailor - do it. I promise you it will make a world of a difference.

3. It's not black. Now, this isn't like a requirement or anything - black is certainly appropriate and okay for interviews. But I like the Navy color because it's not traditionally black. Plus it adds a splash of color without being overly flashy.  

4. To me, pumps are always a smart shoe choice. I decided to wear a printed pair which helps shows off my fun and whimsical side, but the shape of the shoe still says "I'm serious!"

5. Lastly, keep accessories to a minimum. I usually pick a [smaller size] statement necklace, a few bangles and a watch. That's about all you need. Sure you may be like me and like to wear 543693 bracelets, but meeting a potential boss is not the time or the place. If you talk with your hands (as most people do) they're too distracting and loud. 

(Psssst.. I added my favorite carry-all my from Sole Society because it holds my portfolio and notebook so I'm not forced to walk around the office like a highschooler with a binder clutched to my chest.)

Do you guys have any interview outfit tips you'd like to share? I'd love to hear your ideas and thoughts about this... anyone else ever stress out about what to wear?!?

Oh & P.S. I got the job!

(Shop my navy dress/floral pump combo below)


Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Outfit Post: Camo Print Shirt Dress








GAP Camo Shirt Dress (old - similar option)
Bamboo "Royce 10" Wedge Booties (super similar style from DV)
GiGi New York Uber Clutch in Saddle Pebble Grain c/o
Vintage Sunnies (similar) || Caravelle New York Watch (gifted - old but updated version here) || FitBit armband in Violet (soooo in love with mine!)
Maybelline "Vivid Rose" & "Vibrant Mandarin" lipstick combo

Summer is officially coming to an end.. but the weather isn't quite ready to cooperate yet. So my go-to as we transition into the next season is a combo of comfy and breezy shirt dresses with booties. I love this style of dress because they can be worn at almost anytime of the year. Pair with super cute sandals for summer or tights and boots for winter. Remember versatility is key to get the most out of your wardrobe!

Thanks for bearing with me during my summer break. Sometimes we all just need a little vacation (from all our jobs) and I needed some time away from the blog to unplug. With Labor Day over it's time to get back into the swing of things! Excited for a lot of upcoming Fall partnerships that I can't wait to share with you. Have a wonderful Wednesday everyone! 

Shop my look here: